The u.16 soccer team of Northern Academy Secondary School will represent Limpopo at the national finals of the Copa Coca-Cola soccer tournament set for Durban from 18 to 21 September.
Northern Academy beat their nemesis, Benny’s Sport Academy 2-1 at the provincial finals contested at the school’s sports grounds on Friday.
Hendrick Mukwevho, u.16 coach, said they were looking forward to represent the province well at the finals. “On behalf of the school we want to congratulate the boys for their outstanding performance at the provincial finals. They did well and they wanted it wholeheartedly. It will be our opportunity to represent the school at a national event. Our aim is to win gold medal and bring a smile to the faces of our supporters and parents.”
Mukwevho said they have lined-up friendly matches with development teams of the province’s Premier Soccer League clubs as part of their preparations for the big challenge.
“We need to prepare well for the tournament. It is not going to be easy and we will be up against tough opponents. We do not want to struggle at the national event. We have a good squad and they know the importance of winning the tournament. This is a platform for them to further their football careers and impress the scouts from the PSL and other teams who will be at the finals.”
Former Orlando Pirates Captain and ambassador of the tournament, Lucky Lekgwathi was quoted to have said he was impressed by the talent displayed by the Northern Academy players. “What was even more exciting was seeing these teenagers making new friends after competing against each other which is in line with Copa Coca-Cola’s spirit of creating friendships and fair play.
“I am certain that Northern Academy will represent the province of Limpopo well at the national finals,” Lekgwathi commented.
Story: Herbert Rachuene
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